The National Council on Teacher Quality gave Idaho high marks in preparing elementary teachers for reading instruction.
Idaho’s seven elementary teacher preparation programs received an A or higher in that area of training, according to a new NCTQ review of nearly 700 programs across the country.
To rate programs, the national nonprofit used science of reading research that emphasizes phonics, vocabulary and comprehension.
The organization found about half of the programs nationwide provide adequate instruction based on these measures, placing Idaho well ahead of the national average.
Here’s how the state’s programs performed:
- Boise State University: A+
- Brigham Young University-Idaho: A
- Idaho State University: A
- Lewis-Clark State College: A
- Northwest Nazarene University (undergraduate): A+
- Northwest Nazarene University (graduate): A+
- University of Idaho: A+
“We made a commitment to implementing those practices, and we’re seeing the results,” Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield said in a press release acknowledging the findings. “That success starts with exceptional teachers, and this report reflects the outstanding work our colleges and universities are doing to prepare educators before they ever enter the classroom.”
Despite Idaho’s high national standing, NCTQ pointed out that reading challenges remain. Only 61% of the state’s fourth graders read at or above a basic level, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress results emphasized in NCTQ’s report. The study estimated that 9,222 of these learners are struggling with basic reading skills.
The report also found gaps in how reading programs support underserved students. One finding highlighted how over half of the programs devoted fewer than two hours of instructional time to supporting English learners.
NCTQ recommended Idaho strengthen program oversight and pay more attention to the needs of vulnerable students.
NCTQ grades state teacher prep programs on a variety of areas. Click here to see how Idaho has performed in other subjects in the past.
